The quality of entry for the Irish Independent Laurels at Cork has been seriously affected by the direct clash with the Scottish Derby and being staged just a few weeks before the English Derby gets underway.
The Cork event was moved this year from an October date and the locals are set to looks for a review, especially when you consider there are nine Irish entries in the Scottish Derby, several of which would be amongst the favourites for the Laurels.
Defending champion Vimmerby goes in the opening heat and has most to fear from fast Shelbourne winner Tyrur Tommy.
Madra Deas, who won last week over C&D in 28.40sec, can take the second qualifier, while National Puppy Stake finalist Black Rogue can take the following qualifier for Mossie O’Connor.
28.60 Cork winner Rastafari Vic is the fancy in heat four, while Easter Cup Finalist Coren Sky can prove too good for his rivals in heat five.
28.19sec Shelbourne winner service Station can benefit from trap in the sixth qualifier, while Barefoot Apollo can make it a red jacket double in the following heat for Paul Hennessy.
29.59sec Shelbourne winner (550y) Tyrur Supermac can make his seasonal bow a winning one in heat eight, while Easter Cup finalist Gaytime Hawk is the pick in heat nine.
Liam Dowling’s Ballymac Matt, who flew round in a pre-event trial in 28.28sec can take the penultimate qualifier while Kilara Hey Mac, who was due to run in the McCalmont Cup Final at Kilkenny 24 hours earlier can take the last.
